@theShep Definitely. I started when I was 11 with my first GSD. The club was very welcoming although they weren't the best trainers. I was fortunate enough to land in the hands of Gottfried Dildei through one of the club members (internationally known, one of the best, awful people skills though) who mentored me and helped us become a solid team. My girl was from some no name breeder who did at least make an attempt to breed from VA rated German showlines but had absolutely know idea what they were doing. She didn't have the most drive, but Gottfried and countless other trainers were more than eager to help me make the most of the dog I had. I learned a ton because my dog was so difficult to work with. All that to say if you don't have the best dog to start with, you'll just have to become that much better to compensate...not necessarily a bad thing imho. Most trainers are eager to help the next generation if you're willing to learn; I've only run into a few sour grapes. My girl is seven now, and we're retired from Schutzhund and currently working on our AKC Utility title. Together we placed 3rd at the DVG/LV National Championships Schutzund I division, earned our Schutzhund III multiple times with multiple high in trials/tracking/obedience, etc. she's also titled in AKC Obedience and Agility, as well as USDAA Agility. We won the 2011 AKC National Junior Obedience Competition, Runner-up at the 2012 NJOC, second runner up at the 2013 NJOC, and won the 2013 AKC National Junior Agility Competition. I am satisfied with what I've learned and what we've managed to accomplish so far, and am officially addicted to the dog show world.
All that is not to brag, but just to show that you can do pretty well in the dog show world regardless of age or dog. Keep an open and humble mind, but a discerning one as well. There are a lot of bad methods in Schutzhund as well as a lot of well intentioned trainers who give bad advice. Soak up everything like a sponge, then squeeze out what you know isn't best for your particular dog. For me, having a such a great mentor and trainer was priceless. If you'd like, shoot me a pm with what area you live in, and I can offer suggestions as far as nearby good trainers if I can. There are quite a few other youth handlers in Schutzhund but as of now it's hard to really know who's out there as we don't have any way of finding are fellow handlers except through championships and trials. I just became a board member for DVG/LV America so I'm really excited about starting new events and programs specifically for youth handlers. I'm hoping to make some way for schutzhund youth to connect and trade experiences and results within the next year or two. Hopefully by the time you really get into it there will be something put together. The lack of youth interaction is the only thing I missed when I was starting out. At the moment, USA is the most youth friendly with extremely low membership fees and youth awards. I highly recommend becoming a member of USA for now. It costs only $12 if your under 21 and the magazines were really helpful as far as growing familiar with the sport, trending trainers, and championship results.
Also, in the beginning at least, your parents/parent/driver will probably have to stay for the duration of the training day. Training days can be long, and your dog will need to stay crated in the car to protect him/her from the weather. Perhaps later once you get to know the club members, you'll be able to keep your dog in a friend's trailer box or kennel, but prepare your parents for the time commitment. Schutzhund is a huge time commitment and can be somewhat expensive (seminars, travel, gas, club dues, equipment,etc.) so do be prepared. You'll never stop learning in this sport, and if you stick it out, stay humble, and work hard at it, it can become an extremely rewarding and addictive hobby. My mom got into it because she had no choice as my chauffer, and she got her own working dog and titled him to a Schutzhund III. It's become a fun way for us to spend time together and we help coach each other and work our dogs. Anyways, sorry for the book and rambling, I get so excited about seeing other potential youth handlers who want to start with their dogs. If you have any questions at all just shoot me a pm and I’ll do my best to help or direct you to someone who can.